KPI Inc.

Building Operator Lead

Location: Richmond, British Columbia
Salary: $35.00–$40.00 per hour
Employment Type: Full-Time, Permanent
Work Arrangement: On-Site
Industry: Building Operations | Mechanical Systems | Facilities Management

Position Overview

KPI is recruiting an experienced Building Operator Lead for a large facility in Richmond, BC.

The successful candidate will be responsible for maintaining the operation, reliability, and performance of building mechanical and electrical infrastructure. The position requires practical experience with central plant equipment, HVAC systems, building controls, and preventive maintenance.

This is a senior technical operations opportunity for an experienced Building Operator, Maintenance Technician, or Power Engineer who can independently troubleshoot equipment deficiencies, coordinate maintenance activities, and support less experienced personnel.

Key Responsibilities

Mechanical Plant Operations

• Inspect, operate, and maintain central plant equipment, including boilers, chillers, heat pumps, pumps, motors, and related systems.

• Monitor HVAC infrastructure, including air handling units, variable air volume systems, ventilation equipment, and mechanical controls.

• Evaluate equipment operating conditions and identify performance deficiencies.

• Troubleshoot mechanical and electrical equipment failures within authorized scope.

• Monitor water treatment equipment and supporting plant infrastructure.

• Assist with equipment adjustments, repairs, component replacements, and system optimization.

Preventive Maintenance & Technical Support

• Execute preventive and corrective maintenance activities across major building systems.

• Monitor maintenance schedules and identify overdue inspections or servicing requirements.

• Coordinate repairs with specialized mechanical, electrical, and HVAC contractors.

• Review equipment documentation, mechanical drawings, operating manuals, and technical specifications.

• Recommend corrective repairs or equipment improvements based on condition and operating performance.

• Provide technical assistance to other maintenance personnel where required.

Life Safety & Emergency Systems

• Inspect and monitor emergency generators, auxiliary power equipment, fire protection systems, and related infrastructure.

• Assist with scheduled testing of emergency equipment and safety systems.

• Investigate equipment malfunctions and participate in emergency response procedures.

• Identify and report safety hazards, operational risks, and equipment deficiencies.

• Ensure inspections and maintenance activities follow applicable safety requirements.

Reporting & Administration

• Maintain daily equipment readings, operating logs, maintenance records, and inspection reports.

• Document equipment failures, corrective actions, and recommended repairs.

• Utilize building automation systems and maintenance management software to monitor system performance.

• Coordinate with operations management regarding equipment condition and maintenance priorities.

Qualifications & Experience

• Minimum 4 years of experience in building operations, mechanical maintenance, HVAC, or central plant operations.

• Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot commercial-scale mechanical and electrical equipment.

• Knowledge of boilers, chillers, heating systems, pumps, HVAC controls, and air distribution systems.

• Building Technician, Building Environmental Systems (BES), Instrumentation & Controls, or related technical certification preferred.

• 4th or 5th Class Power Engineering certification is a strong asset.

• SMT, SMA, or equivalent building operations qualifications are considered assets.

• Experience working with building automation systems and energy management controls.

• Ability to interpret mechanical drawings, operating schematics, and equipment specifications.

• Familiarity with preventive maintenance scheduling and technical recordkeeping.

• Knowledge of emergency power systems and fire and life safety equipment.

• Availability to assist with after-hours emergencies when required.

Compensation & Benefits

• Hourly compensation of $35.00–$40.00 based on qualifications and experience.

• Comprehensive health and dental benefits.

• Employer pension program.

• Paid vacation and additional eligible paid leave.

• Opportunities for technical certification and continued education.

Career Development

This opportunity provides an experienced technical operator with exposure to complex mechanical infrastructure, maintenance coordination, operational troubleshooting, and equipment reliability planning.

Candidates seeking to progress toward Chief Building Operator, Operations Supervisor, or Facilities Management positions may find this experience beneficial.

Apply Through KPI

KPI works with building operators, power engineers, technical tradespeople, and facilities management professionals across Western Canada.

Visit www.kpi.ca to apply, explore related opportunities, and access employment and compensation resources.

KPI | Confidential Recruitment & Workforce Solutions